Hello, we currently working on a rooftop deck project for our home that includes a few planters and a screen. The screen will be made of cedar 2x2s and mounted on the planters. It will definitely be exposed to the elements. I was looking for the best long lasting approaches to finish it and it seems that some sort epoxy/seal followed by varnish could last years. The problem is that once installed it will be near impossible to reapply any finish. If that’s how we go 1. how long can I expect that to last? 2. if we cant replace anything, what will happen? 3. is it better to rely on cedar’s longevity without any finish at all to avoid a finish that can’t be maintained?
thanks!!!
Replies
Epoxy and varnish seem like they would be really durable but in reality they sit on the surface and don’t expand and contract the same way the wood does. In my opinion something like an oil finish is better because it soaks into the wood and keeps it from drying out. Plus it will never flake and peel as it ages. Just sand lightly and apply another coat to the areas you can. Or don’t and just let cedar be cedar, it’s one of the most rot resistant woods around. There are also some hippie finishes you can use or make yourself kind a like butcher block oil.